Ullapool visit by Viking Vela marks launch of Wester Ross port’s 2025 cruise season
BEAUTIFUL weather blessed the launch of a Wester Ross port’s cruise visitor season on Monday with local businesses feeling the benefit.
The Viking Vela brought almost 1000 passengers to Ullapool as the village marked the start of a season expected to welcome 40 calls.
It was the maiden visit to Ullapool for the 784ft ship that was built last year and had begun a 14-day cruise from London to Bergen on March 23. As well as stopping at Ullapool, the small ship takes in Kirkwall, Leith, Aberdeen and Lerwick following visits to Dublin, Liverpool and Belfast en route to the Norwegian port.
Ullapool Harbour Trust reported that it has been a lovely day with fine weather greeting the 980 passengers aboard.
Business manager Edel Walsh said: “Most passengers took guided tours of the village – an offer designed specially for Viking visitors which has proven extremely successful with local businesses as they benefit from increased interaction with the visitors.”
Yesterday also saw the launch of the brand new welcome centre built on the pier over the winter months to replace the old marquee which, at nearly 15 years’ old, had served the harbour well.
The new building, says Ullapool Harbour Trust, “is perfect for welcoming visitors – a warm and inviting space for passengers arriving off the ships, a luxury respite from Highland weather and a natural space for chatting with guests about our beautiful area”.
Constructed by James Evans and Sons Dingwall, costs were assisted by Highlands and Islands Enterprise who have supported UHT in its landmark projects over the years.
This month will also see the launch of Invergordon’s cruise season with thousands of passengers getting their first taste of the Highlands via the Easter Ross port.
The cruise ship schedule for 2025 indicates the return of some massive, head-turning liners from April 16 through to October 29.
